Photo courtesy of REED & BENOIT FUNERAL HOME INC
Watertown, New York
Peter Donald O’Brien, 87, of Watertown, NY passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on January 6, 2018.
Peter was born May 9, 1930 in Ogdensburg, NY son of Peter F. & Mary L. O’Brien. He graduated from St. Mary’s Academy and Clarkson University where he enjoyed playing football, basketball and baseball. After college, he served in the Marines.
After returning to Ogdensburg, he met the love of his life, Kathleen DeSantis. They were married June 18, 1955 in Saranac Lake, NY.
They settled in Syracuse where Peter became district sales manager for Pepperidge Farm. In July of 1973 he purchased Brownell Abstract Corp and moved his family to Watertown. Peter was President of Brownell Abstract Corporation until his retirement in 1992.
Peter enjoyed golf, Syracuse sports, horse racing and his winter home in Vero Beach, Florida.
His greatest pleasure in life was his family. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen D. O’Brien, and 8 children Michael (Tammy) O’Brien, Syracuse, Kathleen Burgess, Watertown, Marianne (Andrew) Nigolian, Syracuse, Peter D. O’Brien Jr., Chico, CA, Thomas (Cathy) O’Brien, Watertown, Alicia (Robert) Bacsik, Watertown, Teresa (Matthew) McAnaney, Syracuse, and Patrick (Karen) O’Brien, Watertown. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, sisters Mary Cook, Gouverneur and Alicia Waldron, Saranac, brother Joseph (Helen) O’Brien, Ocala, Florida, and several nieces and nephews.
The funeral mass will be 12:00pm Tuesday, January 9 at Holy Family Church, Watertown. In lieu of calling hours following the mass the family invites you to a reception at Savory Downtown, Watertown.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Precious Blood Monastery, 400 Pratt Street, Watertown, New York 13601.
Arrangements are with Reed & Benoit Funeral Home, Inc.
Condolences may be made online at www.reedbenoit.com
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Marianne, so sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Ann Marie Trinca
January 09, 2018 | Syracuse, NY
Mike, so sorry to hear about the passing of your father, condolences to you and your family.
Michael Shannon
January 09, 2018 | Syracuse, NY
To the O'Brien Family,
Please except my most heartfelt sympathy for your loss.
Jim Kerwin
January 09, 2018 | Syracuse, NY
To the O'Brien family -
I am sorry for your loss. I have very fond memories of Mr. OB during my high school days at BG. I remember him appreciating our visit to the hospital to see Mike. His smile and enthusiasm were infectious and he was always great to the sports teams and boosters. What a great family to leave as a legacy! Take comfort in all the memories you share. My condolences to all.
Mike Cartini
January 09, 2018 | Clay, NY
Tess OB,
So sorry to hear of your
father's passing. I remember his kindness and sweetness during my visit to your home from MRC. My condolences to you and your family. Praying for your peace and comfort.
Blessings,
Gina (PetitFrere) Kyle
Gina Kyle
January 08, 2018 | Huntsville, AL
Kathy, I am so sorry to hear of the lose of your dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Mary Ellen
January 08, 2018
My Sympathy to entire O'Brien family. I met Pete when he owned Brownell Abstract and I worked for the County Clerk's Office (1986 - 2005. He was always so kind to all of us who worked there, and I remember standing at the Counter while I recorded all of his documents one by one, and having great conversations with him. I will be thinking of you and giving my prayers at this sad time.
Julie Bresee-Adderley
January 08, 2018 | Watertown, NY
Alicia and Bob,
So sorry to hear of your family's loss, We will be thinking of you and sending prayers at this sad time.
Mike and Chris Lachenauer
January 08, 2018
My sympathy to the entire O'Brien family. Pete was a wonderful person, always smiling and a pleasure to work with. I got to know him and most of his family during the time I worked in Watertown (1977-1986)and my dealings with Brownell Abstract. I have fond memories of Pete and his entire family. The photo is just how I remember him! Susan (Basta) Mahoney
January 08, 2018